Stoke-on-Trent: Landlord hits back at claims his pub smells of urine | UK News
A proprietor of a popular pub in Stoke-on-Trent has hit back at allegations his pub “smells of pee”.
Burslem’s Grade II-listed Duke William was recently the victim of a social media rampage by a disgruntled punter.
In the post, the man claimed the “entire building smells like a toilet, the staff is rude and the beer selection is essentially non-existent.”
He was also dissatisfied with the food on offer.
The customer continued: “Such a shame to see that the Duke William has really hit rock bottom.
“I don’t think there will be any backtracking now without drastic changes!”
But Steve Weeks, who took over the Duke William last October, was quick to defend the pub’s honour.
The 58-year-old said he takes the feedback as a “way to progress” and believed he had “flexibility” with the drinks on offer.
He wrote in response: “If you have any opinions please speak to me personally. Like I said, everyone has memories of this place. that are long gone.
“I’m not a local, I’m not even from Stoke, but I have nothing but the drive to make this place work. Still haven’t figured out what’s really going to make this place buzz, beer styles are definitely not the answer as we don’t throw away.
“Trade has been completely different since Covid and will take some time to regain a foothold.”
Other regulars were quick to praise father-of-two Steve’s efforts to keep one of the city’s most famous pubs open.
One wrote: “Always the same. Complain about buildings being left empty and if anyone tries outside of the area the knives will go inside. Can’t win But I’m glad to see someone trying.”
And another added: “Nice to see you’re fighting your way through. Has been working in all forms of gastronomy and the hotel industry for over 30 years and knows your problems only too well. Go ahead and hope everything settles down with a reward for your apparent passion.
“If there is a so-called smell, then there must be many suitors using it.”
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